Peri-operative hypothermia: implications for practice.

This article explores whether there are adverse surgical outcomes for patients who experience hypothermia in the peri-operative period. Findings of this literature review highlight the need to establish a standard definition of hypothermia. Furthermore, the literature supports the full implementation of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance on The Management of Lnadvertent Perioperative Hypothermia in Adults. A total of 18 studies were critically appraised to determine their rigour, reliability and validity. A discussion of the findings from the studies has taken into account the inferences drawn from the appraisal. Evaluation of the quality of the evidence has been used to evaluate which findings could apply to clinical practice. While there were variations in study quality, the evidence supports developing an effective strategy for preventing hypothermia in the peri-operative period.